By John Audu.
The National Boundary Commission (NBC) has called for peaceful coexistence among border communities in Abia and Cross River States amidst escalating tensions over boundary disputes.
Violent clashes erupted between the Isu community in Arochukwu Local Government Area of Abia and the Ukwa Mbiabong Ukwa Eburutu community in Odukpani Local Government Area of Cross River on January 4 and 5.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Thursday, the Director-General of the commission, Mr. Adamu Adaji, condemned the violence, which has resulted in loss of life, calling it unacceptable.
Adaji expressed condolences to the affected communities and urged stakeholders to exercise restraint, avoiding actions that could hinder ongoing boundary resolution efforts between the two states.
He highlighted the NBC’s proactive measures to resolve the dispute, including a Joint Meeting of Officials held in Calabar on December 11, 2024. During this meeting, the Deputy Governors of Abia, Mr. Ikechukwu Emetu, and Cross River, Mr. Peter Odey, reaffirmed their states’ commitment to amicable dispute resolution.
The NBC Director-General noted that both leaders emphasized the importance of peace and mutual understanding among the affected communities. He also mentioned that the meeting outlined key steps to address the dispute, including:
• An agreement to share the disputed triangular land between the Okon-Aku and Ikun communities, pending approval from both Deputy Governors.
• A plan to resolve land issues concerning point AC15A (involving the Abia, Achara, and Biakpan communities) at a Joint Technical Meeting scheduled for January 20 in Abuja.
• The submission of documents supporting claims over disputed points AC19 to AC23 (involving Mbiabong-Ito and Isu areas) by January 20.
• The formation of a Joint Committee for the rehabilitation and return of displaced communities in the Mbiabong-Ito/Isu boundary sector.Adaji reiterated the NBC’s role as a neutral mediator committed to fairness, consensus, and fostering sustainable peace. He stressed the importance of dialogue over violence, warning that any acts of aggression would undermine efforts to attract development and resolve disputes.
He called on traditional rulers, community leaders, and security agencies to collaborate in promoting peace and ensuring productive discussions ahead of the January 20 meeting.
“The NBC remains optimistic that its proactive approach, including accurate surveying and equitable solutions, will lead to a lasting resolution of the Abia-Cross River boundary disputes,” Adaji stated.
As preparations for the January 20 Joint Technical Meeting continue, the NBC urges all stakeholders to prioritize peace and exercise patience as the Commission works towards finalizing boundary resolutions.
“I am confident that these efforts will pave the way for stability and development in the region,” Adaji concluded.NAN
